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Time of India
25-07-2025
- Business
- Time of India
UK closes door on Overseas Care Worker Visas: What this means for UAE-based applicants, explained
The UK has officially closed its overseas Care Worker visa route as of 22 July 2025, ending new applications from abroad/ Representative Image TL;DR The UK has stopped issuing new Care Worker visas to applicants outside the country as of 22 July 2025. UAE-based applicants can no longer apply for care assistant or senior care roles in the UK. If you're already in the UK, some options still remain, but with strict rules . If you're based in the UAE and hoping to move to the UK to work in the care sector, there's been a major change. As of 22 July 2025, the UK government has officially closed the visa route that allowed overseas care workers to apply for jobs under the Skilled Worker visa. This decision affects care assistants and senior care workers, roles that were previously open to foreign applicants to help fill staffing gaps. Many in the UAE used this path to start a new life in the UK. That option is now off the table. T he move is part of the UK's efforts to lower immigration numbers and shift focus to hiring locally. It also comes after concerns about workers being mistreated under this visa route. Why the Change? The UK's decision is part of a broader shift in immigration policy aimed at: Reducing net migration Curbing exploitation of migrant workers Prioritising local workforce development The care worker role had previously been listed as a shortage occupation, making it easier and more affordable to access the UK labour market. That pathway is now closed to new applicants from abroad, including those residing in the UAE. What If You're Already in the UK? If you're a UAE resident currently in the UK on a valid visa, you may still be able to move into a care job, but only if you meet the following: You switch before 22 July 2028 You've worked at your current sponsor for at least 3 months Your employer can legally issue a new Certificate of Sponsorship These conditions are tight and designed to avoid misuse of the system. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Indonesia: New Container Houses (Prices May Surprise You) Container House | Search ads Search Now Undo For Current Visa Holders If you're already working in the UK under a Health and Care Worker visa, you don't need to leave. Here's what you can still do: Keep working until your visa runs out Extend your visa, if you qualify Switch jobs, as long as the new role is eligible Stay with your family, if they're already included in your visa But once your visa ends, getting back in for the same type of job may not be possible unless you meet new criteria. What Other Options Do UAE Applicants Have? This visa route is closed, but other doors are still open. 1. Skilled Worker Visas for Nurses or Allied Health Roles: If you're a qualified nurse or healthcare professional, you can still apply. These jobs are still on the shortage list. 2. Student Route: You can study a health-related course in the UK and then apply to stay under the post-study visa. Later, you might qualify for a Skilled Worker visa. 3. Other Shortage Occupations: Sectors like IT, construction, and engineering are hiring. If you have relevant skills, or are willing to retrain, these may be options. What This Means for Employers Care providers will now need to focus on hiring locally. They also have to keep existing migrant workers in line with the new rules. The government is tightening oversight, and breaking sponsorship rules could mean losing their licence. What UAE-Based Applicants Should Do Now If you planned to apply from the UAE under the care worker visa, you need to rethink your plans now. If you're in the UK, talk to an immigration adviser soon. Check your visa status and explore what options remain. Planning ahead matters, the door is closed for new care worker applications from overseas, but other paths may still be open.
The Mainichi
22-07-2025
- Business
- The Mainichi
Hiroshima Pref. businesses, univ. strive to help foreign workers integrate, feel secure
FUKUYAMA, Hiroshima -- "It is our hope that foreign workers can work in an environment where their safety and peace of mind are sustained." So said Narikazu Komaru, chairman of the Fukuyama Chamber of Commerce and Industry, at a June press conference announcing a new Japanese language education course for foreign workers, to be launched in partnership with Fukuyama City University here. Komaru explained that the goal is to help foreign workers feel secure and supported. With Japan's working-age population rapidly shrinking, the importance of foreign labor is growing. The chamber had been requesting the city and other local authorities to establish such courses since last year to support member businesses in tapping foreign talent. "Having a higher education institution like a university involved means companies can confidently send their workers to participate," the chamber explained, adding that the initiative aims to secure a stable workforce and promote the integration of foreign workers into the local community. According to the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare, the number of foreign workers in Japan surpassed 2 million for the first time as of the end of October 2023, and reached about 2.3 million by the same time in 2024. By industry, manufacturing employs the largest number of foreign workers. By residency status, the technical intern training program, originally intended for technology transfer to developing countries, accounted for 470,725 people. Meanwhile, the "Specified Skilled Worker" status, introduced in 2019 to address labor shortages, reached 206,995 people -- a nearly 50% increase from the previous year. At Innoshima Tekko Ltd., a hull block manufacturer on Innoshima Island in Onomichi, Hiroshima Prefecture, where shipbuilding is a major industry, nearly half of the company's roughly 90 employees are from Indonesia or Vietnam. One such employee, Suwatno, 38, from Java, Indonesia, first came to Japan in 2008 as a technical intern and worked at the company. After a period back home, he returned in 2023 under the Specified Skilled Worker (i) status, which allows a total stay of up to five years. He has since passed the exam for Specified Skilled Worker (ii), which has no limit on the number of renewals and allows family members to join him in Japan if requirements are met. Now a manager, Suwatno mentors other foreign employees. "I want to keep doing the work I'm used to for a long time. I hope to bring my family here and live together," he said with a smile. The company began accepting foreign workers in 1998. Initially, they were seen as supplementary staff, but as more young Japanese left the island and local hiring became difficult, foreign workers became the core of the workforce. Four years ago, a dedicated department was established to actively recruit and support talented foreign staff and help them settle in. The firm holds Japanese language classes during lunch breaks, provides dormitories and prayer spaces for Muslim employees, and regularly conducts one-on-one meetings to discuss concerns including personal issues. It also offers transportation to medical facilities for employees who only have bicycles, and has reduced dormitory fees in response to the recent depreciation of the yen. Yu Fukushima, section chief in charge of overseas operations, said, "After years of these efforts, Japanese employees' attitudes have changed. Having foreign workers stay long-term and being able to pass on our skills and know-how has become a source of pride and motivation for us." The company is even considering building a mosque for its Indonesian Muslim employees. However, there are challenges that a single company cannot solve, such as the lack of rental housing for foreigners in the area and difficulties finding schools for employees' children if they bring their families from abroad. Fukushima added, "We hope the government will work to improve these aspects of the environment." (Japanese original by Fusajiro Takada, Fukuyama Bureau)
Time of India
13-07-2025
- Business
- Time of India
UK's Skilled Worker rules change after July 22: Why this deadline matters for Indian tech professionals, engineers, and healthcare workers
New UK Skilled Worker visa rules: Higher salaries, digital visas, and longer path to residency The United Kingdom will introduce new Skilled Worker visa rules beginning July 22, 2025, bringing significant changes to salary thresholds, skill level eligibility, settlement timelines, and visa processes. These updates are part of a broader overhaul aimed at reducing net migration and shifting towards a more digitally managed immigration system. The upcoming changes are particularly relevant to Indian nationals, who form the largest group of Skilled Worker visa holders in the UK. Professionals in IT, engineering, and healthcare must carefully evaluate the new requirements and timelines, especially those planning to apply or renew visas under the current system. Skill and salary thresholds to rise significantly One of the most impactful changes is the increase in the required skill level. From July 22, only roles classified at RQF Level 6—equivalent to a UK bachelor's degree—will be eligible under the Skilled Worker route. Previously, jobs at RQF Level 3 (A-level or equivalent) were also accepted. This change excludes more than 180 occupations from eligibility, particularly affecting supervisory and technical roles. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Providers are furious: Internet access without a subscription! Techno Mag Learn More Undo Salary thresholds are also increasing. The new general salary minimum for Skilled Worker visa applicants is £41,700. Roles requiring a PhD will need a salary of at least £37,500, while those in STEM PhD roles or listed under the Temporary Shortage List (TSL) may qualify with a minimum salary of £33,400. Applicants who entered the UK before April 4, 2024, may still be eligible for a lower extension threshold of £31,300. For Indian IT professionals and engineers, who frequently apply under codes that previously fell under RQF Level 3–5, it is essential to verify if their role still qualifies under the updated skill classification. 10-year path to settlement begins From July 22, the qualifying period for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR)—the UK's settlement status—will double from 5 to 10 years for Skilled Worker visa holders. While transitional protections may apply in certain cases, applicants should plan long-term immigration goals accordingly. To qualify for ILR under the new rules, individuals must also meet the new salary requirements and show continuous legal residence over the 10-year period. Why the July 22 deadline matters The last date to apply under the current Skilled Worker rules is July 21, 2025. After that, all applications will be assessed using the updated salary and skill criteria. Applicants and sponsoring employers are advised to secure a Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) and submit visa applications before the deadline to benefit from existing eligibility conditions. Employers must also adapt their recruitment strategies. Medium-skilled jobs, including some IT support and health technician roles, may no longer qualify for sponsorship under the new RQF Level 6 requirement. Additionally, stricter sponsor licence compliance checks will be introduced. Digital visa system to apply from July 15 From July 15, 2025, all visas, including Skilled Worker visas, will be issued as eVisas. These are digital records linked to the applicant's passport and replace traditional visa stickers. Visa holders must keep their personal and passport details updated in the UKVI system to maintain valid immigration status. Employers and landlords will verify right-to-work and right-to-rent status through the digital system. This transition marks a shift to fully online immigration compliance for all new applicants. Key steps for Indian professionals before July 22 • Confirm whether your job remains eligible under RQF Level 6 • Ensure salary meets the revised thresholds • Have your employer issue a CoS before July 22 • Apply before the deadline to benefit from transitional rules • Prepare for digital compliance under the new eVisa system For Indian professionals seeking to live and work in the UK, acting before July 22 may be the most straightforward path under current immigration rules. Ready to navigate global policies? Secure your overseas future. Get expert guidance now!
Asahi Shimbun
10-07-2025
- Asahi Shimbun
Vietnamese cuisine chef loses visa for working in burger shop
Pho chefs can be granted a Skilled Worker visa without a Japanese language requirement if they are deemed to have specialized expertise in ethnic cuisine. (Asahi Shimbun file photo) A change in venue caused a Vietnamese chef to lose his residency status in Japan, a case legal experts say highlights systemic gaps in the country's foreign labor system. Although a legal dispute over the matter has been settled, the chef, who was assigned to a hamburger shop instead of a pho restaurant, was forced to leave Japan and cannot return. According to court records, the 40-year-old man had previously come to Japan as a technical intern 20 years ago. In 2018, wanting to work in Japan again, he consulted an acquaintance who runs a staffing agency in Vietnam. Since returning to Japan as a technical intern was not possible, he was advised to apply for a Skilled Worker visa as a chef. This category allows foreigners with specific expertise in ethnic cuisine to work in Japan. The man had over 10 years of experience helping at his family's Vietnamese restaurant. He demonstrated his cooking skills by preparing the noodle soup during a meeting in Vietnam with the operator of a restaurant in Takatsuki, Osaka Prefecture. After passing this informal test, he signed a job contract and paid 1 million yen ($6,800) in fees to the intermediary. He obtained his chef visa and arrived in Japan in October 2020. However, the pho restaurant where he was assigned to work at had closed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Instead, he was reassigned to a related hamburger shop, which did not serve Vietnamese food and thus did not meet the conditions of his chef visa. For two years, the man worked at the burger shop, unaware that he was violating his visa conditions. One day, during a routine inspection, immigration authorities discovered the breach and revoked his residency status. With the support of a legal group advocating for foreigners, the man filed a damages lawsuit at the Osaka District Court against both the Japanese staffing agency and the restaurant operator. The staffing agency admitted it knew the reassignment violated visa conditions but argued that the man had insisted on working as soon as possible. The restaurant operator denied any wrongdoing, claiming it had relied on an administrative scrivener for visa compliance. In December last year, both companies agreed to a court-mediated settlement, paying a total of 2.5 million yen to the man. However, the visa was not reissued, and he remains unable to return to Japan. LACK OF OVERSIGHT Because the Skilled Worker visa allows foreign chefs to work in Japan without language tests or institutional oversight, it creates opportunities for misuse, legal experts said. 'This kind of case is not rare,' said attorney Hisanori Shikata, who represented the Vietnamese man. Administrative scrivener Takeru Okamoto, an expert in immigration law, warns that many employers seeking to hire foreign cooks do not fully understand visa categories. 'Even if the employer is unaware, assigning work outside visa conditions can lead to criminal charges for promoting illegal employment,' he said. Yoshihisa Saito, an associate professor of Asian labor law at Kobe University, emphasized the need to reform the category to better protect workers. As of June last year, 45,000 foreign nationals were working under the Skilled Worker visa category. Unlike the newer Specified Skilled Worker visa introduced in 2019, the Skilled Worker visa lacks supervision from specialized agencies. 'Some intermediaries are acting in bad faith,' Saito said. 'Employers must understand visa rules, and legal reforms are needed, including Japanese language requirements.'
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Business Standard
07-07-2025
- Politics
- Business Standard
Migrants on UK Skilled Worker visa face debt, fake agents, exploitation
A key British work visa route used by thousands of Indian and other foreign professionals leaves migrants vulnerable to abuse by their sponsors, a parliamentary panel has warned. The House of Commons Public Accounts Committee (PAC), which reviews government spending, raised concerns on July 5 over the structure of the Skilled Worker visa and the Home Office's failure to prevent exploitation. How the Skilled Worker visa works The Skilled Worker visa allows people from outside the UK and Switzerland to live and work in the UK for an approved sponsoring employer. It replaced the earlier Tier 2 (General) work visa and is a major part of the country's post-Brexit immigration system. Applicants must have a job offer from a UK employer with a sponsor licence, and their right to remain in the country is tied to that employer. This dependency, according to the PAC, increases the risk of exploitation. Parliament flags abuse, debt bondage and fake agents 'There is evidence that applicants have been charged extortionate fees for Skilled Worker visas in their home countries, before they come to the United Kingdom,' the PAC report notes. It adds that workers have been subjected to debt bondage, long working hours and poor conditions. These issues have been particularly severe in the social care sector, which was opened to foreign recruitment in 2022 to address shortages during the COVID-19 pandemic. 'Government moved swiftly to open up the visa system to help the social care system cope during the pandemic… Our report finds that this speed came at a painfully high cost – to the safety of workers from the depredations of labour market abuses, and the integrity of the system from people not following the rules,' said Sir Geoffrey Clifton-Brown, PAC chair and Conservative MP. He added that the Home Office still lacks basic data, including how many visa holders have been identified as victims of modern slavery or have overstayed their visas. PAC criticised the Home Office for not doing enough to stop fraudulent recruitment practices in migrants' home countries. Many applicants have fallen prey to bogus agents promising jobs in the UK and charging illegal fees. Adis Sehic, policy manager at the Work Rights Centre, said the findings confirmed concerns of widespread abuse involving at least 39,000 migrant care workers, including many Indians. 'This report is yet more damning evidence that the principle of sponsorship, which ties migrant workers in the UK to their employer, is inherently unsafe for workers and, in our view, breaches their human rights,' said Sehic. 'Structural reform of the sponsorship system must urgently be undertaken if this government is to meaningfully uphold its commitments relating to employment and human rights.' Drop in Indian work visas amid rule changes According to UK Home Office data, Indian nationals accounted for 81,463 of the 369,419 work-related visas granted by the UK in 2024 — the highest of any nationality at 22%. However, this marks a sharp 50% drop from 162,655 visas issued to Indians in 2023. The number of main applicants fell by 53% and dependents by 48%, likely reflecting new restrictions introduced in early 2024. These included: • Raising the minimum salary threshold for Skilled Worker visas to £38,700 • Banning social care workers from bringing dependents • Reducing the number of jobs eligible for lower salary sponsorship • Increasing the income requirement for spouse or partner visas from £18,600 to £29,000 Within the Indian cohort: • 34,954 were main applicants (43%) • 46,509 were dependents (57%) • 30,301 held Health and Care Worker visas (37%) • 27,922 were on Skilled Worker visas (34%) Other categories included senior or specialist business workers (6,219), creative workers (1,860), international sportspeople (241), religious workers (148), seasonal workers (101), and ministers of religion (70). The Home Office has said it will formally respond to the PAC's recommendations in due course. A spokesperson said, 'We have rolled up our sleeves to fix the broken immigration system, suspending the highest total of skilled worker sponsor licences since records began in 2012, raising the Skilled Worker threshold back to degree level and ending overseas recruitment to the care sector.' The government also recently released its Immigration White Paper, proposing further changes to the Skilled Worker route and international recruitment practices.
